Used to identify and track items, automatic identification and data collection (also called AIDC, Auto ID,
automatic data capture and automatic data collection)
is a family of technologies that identify, verify, record, communicate and store information on discrete, packaged or containerized items. Because the process is automated (rather than reliant on pen, paper and people),
information is gathered quickly and accurately. The most common technologies used to identify and capture data are barcodes, handheld and fixed-position scanners and imagers, radio frequency
identification (RFID) tags and readers, and voice recognition, weighing and cubing devices. Typical applications include receiving and putaway, inventory picking, order fulfillment, determination of weight and volume,
and tracking and tracing throughout the supply chain.

Matrix or two-dimensional barcode symbologies (such as data matrix and QR Code) store information in a pattern of black and white squares or dots. 2D symbols can store considerably more information in smaller spaces than linear barcodes.

When a barcode is scanned by a hand-held or fixed position barcode reader, barcode scanner or imager, the information stored in the code is validated and then
transmitted to a system for further processing and use.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) – RFID uses tags (or transponders) with up to two kilobytes of data embedded in a microchip or polymer and a small antenna—and strategically
deployed antennae and readers—to locate, identify and transmit information on items (or people) carrying the tags. Unlike barcodes, but within certain constraints, RFID does not require contact or line-of-sight for data capture.

An RFID reader (or interrogator) is a fixed or mobile data capture device that generates an electromagnetic field to trigger and capture a data response from an encoded tag present in a defined interrogation zone.
Reader-activated Passive tags use power derived from the RFID reader’s electromagnetic field to transmit their data back to the reader. Battery-assisted or semi-passive tags use batteries to run the
microchip and onboard temperature, vibration and other sensors.
They have a longer read range than passive tags. Battery-powered active tags transmit data back to the reader(s) in their network when activated or at predetermined times.

Voice recognition – Instead of relying on a set of paper-based instructions or RF equipment, a worker wears a
voice headset and a wireless, system-linked device that permit hands- and eyes-free task execution. Task instructions are transmitted to the worker
through the headset. When the task is finished, the wearer speaks into the headset to confirm completion. This process is commonly used in voice-directed picking and putaway.

Labels - Imprinted with human and machine readable verbiage, numbers and barcodes, labels are used to identify products and containers, as well as
storage locations. Produced (and sometimes applied) by printers using ink, toner or thermal transfer, a label stores information related to the item or location
that can be retrieved using AIDC systems. Sophisticated labels may also include an RFID tag.

Cubing and weighing – Dimensioning equipment uses optical or ultrasonic scanners to determine the dimensions and volume of an item or package. This information helps with the selection of the
appropriate location for storage, or for placement on a truck for outbound shipping. Scales determine the weight of a product or load either upon receipt (to confirm that the correct amount of goods has been received) or prior to shipping
(to calculate transportation charges).

Multi-modal data collection – In some operations, a combination of two or more of the above AIDC technologies may be used to further streamline the data collection process.